The 2×72 belt grinder may be the second most used too in my shop, just after the table saw. Now, rough shaping is excellent, i use a 120 grit belt on my grinder to rough in the handles on my knives before switching over to files and sandpaper, and it saves a load of time, but with the speed the belts running youll just be taking off wood way too fast, and the surface finish would end up less than adequate, e.g ridges, gouges and the like. Admittedly, you could get around the issues by slowing the grinder down from the normal 4000sfpm range used for metalwork down to the 1500sfpm range used for woodwork, but honestly at that point it would make more sense to just get a woodworking belt sander instead, something like a bog-standard 4×36 stationary unit.
Using a belt sander or a belt grinder for knife making to grind the blade into shape. It is also possible for you to create your own knife from scratch using just a knife making belt sander, a grinder, a burning coal fire source and a blacksmithing hammer and anvil for beating the blade into shape. Sanders are more delicate than belt grinders for knife making and wear out with time when used for grinding metal.
Considering its low price, we were quite surprised when it turned out to be one of the best belt grinders for knife making for the money. For most users, we think the Bucktool Combo Belt Sander is the best belt grinder for knife making overall. The Shop Fox W1843 Knife Belt Sander is the best choice for serious knife makers.
belt sander knife handles Related Question:
Can you use a belt sander to grind metal?
The heavy duty belt sander was designed to do general material removal whether it’s wood and or metal. Making sure you use the right belt type and grit for the material that you’re wanting to sand.
What kind of belt sander do they use on forged in fire?
Porter-Cable PCB420SA Belt Sander. Jet Tools J-4002 Bench Belt and Disc Sander.
What size belt sander is best for making knives?
2×72 Belt Grinders For professional knife making, 2×72 size belts are considered the industry standard. This size accounts for the majority of belt grinding machines manufactured specifically for knife making in North America.